The Brong-Ahafo Regional Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Mr. Isaac Osei has faulted Town Planning Authorities for lack of proper lay out which most often lead to confusion over development projects.

He observed that when ever bodies such as the Volta River Authority,(VRA) Ghana Water Company Limited(GWCL) and Telecom Companies have to work on their lines and cables, they have to cut through roads or destroy trees, thereby creating inconvenience.

Speaking to Space FM in Sunyani on the recent cutting down of beautification trees by the VRA, Mr. Osei said it is the responsibility of planning authorities to demarcate areas  for VRA transmission lines, telecom cables and beautification trees to ensure harmony whenever development projects are carried out.

The VRA says trees under its transmission lines pose threats and must be cut down.
But the EPA director says destroying the trees affects the environment adding that if planning authorities properly designate places for VRA lines, telecom cables and beautification trees, the problem could be avoided. 

Mr. Osei urged planning authorities and other stakeholders to put in place mechanisms that would address situations where asphaltic roads are interfered with pipelines and cables whiles trees that protect the environment are destroyed.

Residents in Sunyani have expressed concern about how roads are cut through to make way for telecom cables while trees which provide shade and protect the environment but come under power lines are also destroyed by the VRA.